The meeting opened with a tribute to former councilwoman Judy Marin and a presentation by the SID, detailing their contributions to the city’s maintenance and beautification. The SID, funded by taxes from property owners, has a $250,000 annual budget and undertakes various initiatives such as public safety lighting, sidewalk cleaning, and event organization. Council President Charles Cobb praised the SID for their transparency and efforts in enhancing downtown Englewood.

Councilman Wilson and Council President Angela David acknowledged the SID’s work, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the freeze on funds extraction from businesses. They also discussed details of the streetscape, with Council President David inquiring about planter locations and park bench updates.

Dr. Kenneth Rosenzweig sought clarity on the participation of tax-exempt businesses in the SID and discussed the long-delayed wayfinding signs program. Mayor Michael Wildes also expressed concern about the delay, emphasizing the need for such signs to improve city visibility.

Dr. Lisa Wisotsky raised the issue of parking scarcity and sought details on the implementation of the parking meter system. The council then heard from DMR about the 2024 master plan, which will guide the city’s goals over the next decade. The planning process includes public outreach and a draft plan expected by late summer.

Councilman Cobb stressed the need for intentional planning in affordable housing and flood mitigation. He suggested engaging with stakeholders, including the mayor, and emphasized reaching out to the Spanish-speaking community. Councilman Wilson, as the planning board liaison, highlighted the urgency of addressing sustainability and environmental considerations in the master plan.

The council debated the number of elements to include in the master plan and discussed infrastructure development opportunities like repurposing dormant properties. The planning board committed to engaging with stakeholders to ensure the plan reflects the community’s needs.

Council President Cobb called for tangible progress in the city’s policy development and emphasized public engagement in the planning process. Concerns were raised about the allocation of resources, such as the purchase of new radios for the police department. A city representative explained that the purchases were mandated by a frequency upgrade.

During the public comment period, residents discussed concerns about housing affordability, gentrification, and the impact of proposed state legislation on local housing policy. The council addressed the need for a localized approach to housing and discussed the waiver of permit fees for a little league program.

Councilman Cobb voiced concern over state legislation that might displace the Council on affordable housing, shifting the responsibility to retired judges. Discussions also included grants for field improvements, pool cleaning, and tree maintenance, with an emphasis on adhering to the city’s ordinances.

The council addressed the maintenance contract for the parking garage, which included preventative measures to avoid future deterioration. Councilman Wilson highlighted concerns about the maintenance of the garage post-repair.

The city’s engineer, Charles Cobb, provided updates on infrastructure projects at City Hall and around the city, including drainage improvements and a partnership with Englewood Hospital for the Street Banner program. The council also discussed the upcoming reorganization and recognized March as Women’s History Month.

Citizens voiced grievances about the police department and the death of a young man. The council assured that the matter would be addressed offline. Former mayor Frank Huddle pushed for adherence to the 2014 master plan for city signage, while Crystal Brown, chair of the environmental commission, criticized the removal of trees without notification.